La Bastide de Marie, a beautiful 18th-century Provencal stone house, perfectly manages to encompass old and new style and sophistication. The exterior is a literal feast for all the senses, from the heavenly scents of magnolia, almonds and lavender, the herbs and home-grown produce of the kitchen garden, to the chirp of cicadas and mile-upon mile of bucolic landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see.
Set in 23 hectares of vines and parkland between Gordes and Ménerbes, an intimate evening dinner on the terrace set against a lantern-lit backdrop of vines, is particularly special, not least for the simple yet imaginative fusion of authentic Provencal flavours.
Indoors, La Bastide de Marie is best described as a heady mix of bohemian, baroque chic, where vintage curios, rich fabrics and antique furnishings complement the colours, lights and harmonies of the southern-inspired design. Individual, quirky and full of flair.